Ukrainian protesters gather to march to Independence square in downtown Kiev, Ukraine, on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013. The pact that sparked the protests was was signed on Friday.

Ukraine's newly elected president Petro Poroshenko signed a historic trade pact with the European Union on Friday.

The pact, which will create closer economic and political ties with the EU, represents a move toward the West for the Ukrainians.

It was the rejection of a trade pact in November by Poroshenko's predecessor that sparked his ouster and eventually brought the country to the brink of war.

Today, Ukrainians took to the streets once again, this time to celebrate their progress. Activists who fought to push Ukraine in this direction told Mashable what the decision means to them — and what is next for their country.

Ruslana, activist and Eurovision winner

"This is amazing! This is a great day for me and all Ukrainians. We were waiting for this day and we have fought so hard for this day.The signing of the agreement with the EU… will help ensure the independence and freedom of Ukraine."

IMAGE: EFREM LUKATSKY/ASSOCIATED PRESS

Volodymyr Parasyuk, Maidan self-defense leader, activist

"Never forget the great price we paid for this agreement. Glory to [our] heroes!"

Natalka Zubar, activist leader in Kharkiv

"It’s a great day...Today we achieved our primary goal...to put Ukraine back on the rails toward Europe."

Oleh Rybachuk, former deputy prime minister of Ukraine

"Finally! [This is] a chance for Ukraine. Lots of people feel that we have opened the door to the cash office [by signing this agreement]. For me, it means we will feel more secure and that’s important for a country, a government, our future."